I’ve been OOO for the last week—on the beach and blissfully ignoring all things work. A few things snuck through: the closing of Helena Anrather in NYC, Artforum’s new editor, and reception to the Whitney Biennial. I also read eight books—the two worth telling you to read are Lazy City by Rachel Connolly and The Art Thief by Michael Finkel. When reading the latter, I wrote a note asking: Would people love art more if they could live with it? I think the answer is yes (but let’s not resort to stealing…).
ARTnews asked the Guggenheim for comment about Beyonce’s recent projections on their New York space; they said they were “not informed about and did not authorize” the “Cowboy Carter” activation Eeek! Great scoop by Karen K. Ho.
Back Row, an excellent substack by
reports on a recent fashion lawsuit that has similarities to art world tactics. Hermès is being sued for encouraging people to buy an array of objects before offering them a coveted Birkin. A similar technique is used in art, urging people to buy into a program to access sought-after artists. The reasons Hermès gives Birkins to go to people who live “the Hermes life” and want the bags for the “right reason” are also similar to the art world justifications. I’ll keep an eye on how the lawsuit goes.“The legal argument here is that Hermès employs “tying” practices to sales of Birkins, meaning customers have to buy other stuff — logo plates, horse saddles, yachting towels, you name it — in order to purchase the bags. At the same time, the plaintiffs allege that Hermès has an unfair monopoly on selling Birkins.”
How much do you think artists get paid to be in The Whitney Biennial? Scroll to the bottom for the answer.
Sad news in the death of Brent Sikkema, who was murdered in his Rio de Janeiro apartment in January. His ex-husband was arrested and is alleged to have played a role in organizing the murder.
Elise Lafontaine will exhibit with Jack Barrett Gallery at the upcoming Dallas Art Fair. Her paintings are complex (the craftmanship always makes people ask how they were made) and mystical. An artist to watch.
Helena Anrather announced the gallery will be closing. I’m bummed, she had great programming. I’m also thinking about all the NYC galleries that have closed recently— JTT, Foxy Production, Queer Thoughts.
I’ve turned on a Paid Subscription option for the newsletter, with the caveat that this weekly edition will always remain free. I really enjoy writing this newsletter, but it is hard work, and I’m exploring ways to grow it into something bigger. If you’d like to support, there will be occasional paywalled posts, first access to events, and personalized art recommendations. I’m excited about what Art Forecast is becoming.
Three Paintings I Saw & Loved
Answer: Artists in the 2024 Whitney Biennial, Even Better Than the Real Thing, receive $2,000 each.
Chat soon! x
So relieved the artists make money!! That could have taken a dark turn.
I’ll be attending the Dallas Art Fair and as a newish art enthusiast, would love to hear about other artists you think we should look out for!